Fernandez faces disciplinary action for alleged racist chant

Chelsea have launched disciplinary proceedings against midfielder Enzo Fernandez after he posted a video on social media which the French Football Federation said included alleged “racist and discriminatory” chanting.

On Tuesday, the FFF said it would file a complaint with FIFA, the world’s governing body, over the video featuring a song sung by some members of the Argentine national team about France players.

Fernandez’s Chelsea teammate Wesley Fofana, who is capped by France, posted a screenshot of the video on Instagram, describing it as “uninhibited racism”.

Fernandez said he “really regrets” the video he posted as Argentina celebrated winning the Copa América.

“The song includes highly offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse for these words,” he said.

“I oppose all forms of discrimination and apologize for being caught up in the euphoria of the Copa América celebrations.

“This video, these moments, these words, do not reflect my beliefs or my character.”

A statement from Chelsea said: “We recognize and appreciate our player’s public apology and will use this as an opportunity to educate.

“The club has instigated an internal disciplinary procedure.”

The FFF will contact the Argentine Football Federation (AFA) regarding the live video posted on social media by Fernández after Argentina defeated Colombia 1-0 in the Copa América final on Sunday.

A statement from the FFF said president Philippe Diallo “condemns in the strongest terms the unacceptable and discriminatory remarks that have been made against the players of the French national team”.

He added: “Faced with the seriousness of these shocking remarks, contrary to the values ​​of sport and human rights, the president of the FFF decided to appeal directly to his Argentine counterpart and to FIFA and lodge a legal complaint for racially offensive and discriminatory comments. .”

The Argentine Federation was approached for comment.

France beat Argentina in the round of 16 of the 2018 World Cup, and Argentina beat France in the 2022 World Cup final.

“FIFA is aware of a video circulating on social media and the incident is being investigated,” a FIFA spokesperson said.

“FIFA strongly condemns any form of discrimination by anyone, including players, fans and officials.”

Chelsea have seven black or mixed-race French players in their first team – Fofana, Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile, Lesley Ugochukwu, Christopher Nkunku, Malo Gusto and Malang Sarr.

Chelsea said it considers “all forms of discriminatory behavior completely unacceptable”.

They added: “We are proud to be a diverse and inclusive club where people of all cultures, communities and identities feel welcome.”